There is now a high risk of attacks on commercial vessels by Houthi forces in the southern Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, according to Operation Prosperity Guardian — the multinational naval initiative responsible for maritime security in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
Risk Level Upgraded
In an official update, Operation Prosperity Guardian raised the threat level from ‘moderate’ to ‘high’ specifically for the southern Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The northern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden remain at a moderate threat level.
Escalation Following Recent Actions
The alert follows the Houthis’ July 20 announcement of a naval blockade and their subsequent attack on the MV ENCELIA on July 22 — actions described by the operation as a ‘significant escalation’ of the group’s maritime strategy.
According to the statement, such attacks are ‘very likely intended to exert political, military, and economic pressure to advance the Houthis’ demands.’
Trade Flow Remains Uninterrupted
Despite the heightened threat, maritime traffic continues largely unaffected: approximately 43 vessels transit the Red Sea daily, and current operations have not yet disrupted this flow.
Operation Prosperity Guardian continues its mission to safeguard commercial shipping through the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.